By 
The Uganda senior women’s basketball team, the Gazelles, triumphed over Burundi 60-30 in the FIBA Zone V Women’s Afrobasket Qualifiers on Thursday evening, clinching a spot in the final.
The game, held at the Hassan Moustafa Sports Hall in Cairo, Egypt, saw Burundi initially take the lead 17-14 after the first quarter.
However, Uganda regrouped and dominated the remaining periods, taking a 29-21 lead at halftime and extending their advantage to 46-26 by the third quarter.
Coach Nicholas Natuhereza commended his team for their resilience, acknowledging the slow start but praising the players’ ability to turn the game around.
Youngsters Anyango and Namayanja.
He specifically highlighted the impact of young talents Bushira Namayanja and Maxine Anyango, who made notable contributions after being introduced to the game.
Namayanja scored 4 points, while Anyango added 3, showcasing their potential and making a significant impact on the match.
Coach Natuhereza expressed pride in the youngsters’ performances, stating, “I’m happy for the young girls that I introduced, who made an impact and even got on the score sheet.”
Head Coach Nick Natuhereza giving the girls some tactics.
This victory sets Uganda up for a showdown with Egypt in the final on Saturday, with both teams now vying for a spot in the 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket in Côte d’Ivoire.
The win was driven by strong performances from Jamila Nansikombi, Mellisa Akullu, and Paige Robinson, who scored 14, 12, and 10 points respectively.
Mellisa Akullu with a roar of triumph.
Akullu was named Player of the Game, contributing 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists.
With a day off before facing Egypt, the Gazelles will look to secure a win and qualify for the Afrobasket finals.
